India Seals Rs 63,000 Crore Deal with France for 26 Rafale Marine Jets for INS Vikrant

In a major boost to India’s naval capabilities, India and France have inked a Rs 63,000 crore agreement for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft on Monday.

Representing India at the signing was Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, with Navy Vice Chief Vice Admiral K Swaminathan also in attendance. French and Indian defence ministers participated remotely in the proceedings.

The Indian Navy urgently requires these 26 Rafale M fighter jets for operational deployment aboard its aircraft carriers, primarily the INS Vikrant, which has recently entered service.

India’s existing Mig-29 K fighter fleet has faced criticism due to persistent maintenance challenges, prompting the need for an alternative.

The newly ordered Rafale M jets will be specially modified to suit Indian Navy specifications and seamlessly integrated into INS Vikrant’s operations. These aircraft serve as an interim solution until India’s indigenous carrier-based fighter program reaches completion.

The approval for this landmark acquisition was granted on April 9 during a Cabinet Committee on Security meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It stands as India’s largest defence deal for carrier-based aircraft to date.

The government-to-government contract includes 22 single-seater and four twin-seater jets, along with a full maintenance support package, logistics assistance, personnel training programs, and provisions for indigenous component manufacturing.

The Rafale M fleet will bolster INS Vikrant's air wing and complement the existing Mig-29 K fighters.

Notably, the Indian Air Force already operates 36 Rafale aircraft procured under a separate 2016 agreement, which are currently stationed at Ambala and Hasimara bases.